Argentina secured their place in the Copa America final with a convincing 2-0 victory over Canada. Lionel Messi was on target for the defending champions, who are now aiming for their third consecutive major title. The final, which will take place in Miami on Sunday, will see Argentina face the winners of the semi-final between Uruguay and Colombia.
The Argentine team produced their best performance of the tournament in front of a capacity crowd at the MetLife Stadium. Their display mirrored their success in the 2022 World Cup, showing that they are peaking at just the right moment. Messi, who scored his first goal of the tournament, expressed his admiration for the team’s accomplishments and their ability to compete for another championship.
Canada, in their first ever Copa America appearance, can be proud of their run in the tournament. However, they were outmatched by the Argentine team, who controlled the game from the start. Canada’s coach, Marsch, acknowledged that his players looked fatigued and struggled to keep up with the physicality of the match.
Argentina’s dominance was evident throughout the game, with the trio of Angel Di Maria, Messi, and Rodrigo De Paul causing constant problems for Canada’s defense. De Paul created the breakthrough in the 22nd minute, setting up Julian Alvarez for the opening goal. Messi then extended Argentina’s lead in the second half, capitalizing on a pass from Enzo Fernandez.
With a two-goal cushion, Argentina adopted a more defensive approach, preserving their energy and inviting Canada to attack. Despite a late surge from Canada, Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, was rarely troubled.
The victory puts Argentina one step closer to a record 16th Copa America triumph. They will be hoping to continue their impressive form and secure another major title in the final.
